For those who like their rock southern dipped and deep fried, Friday night’s concert to kick off the Heartland Music Festival may have been considered a feast.

Country rock veterans The Kentucky HeadHunters brought a legion of followers with them and reunited with some old friends in southern rockers Black Oak Arkansas, headed up by charismatic front man Jim “Dandy” Mangrum. The two groups buffeted Freeman Lake Park for hours as the weather stayed warm minus the crushing humidity that drifted into the region earlier in the week.

Today, Kentucky police officers may arrest for misdemeanors such as possession of marijuana or disorderly conduct. Beginning Wednesday, police may only cite some misdemeanors rather than arrest.

Gov. Steve Beshear signed House Bill 463 into law March 3. The bill is designed to decrease prison population, incarceration costs and recidivism. Section 46 of the bill covers arrestable offenses and makes significant changes to what misdemeanor offenses local law enforcement can and cannot arrest for.

In Alabama, a wave of tornadoes ripped through town after town, scattering everything in their path.
Along the Mississippi River, heavy and relentless downpours left the river swollen and unable to handle the massive amount of rainfall, sending overflowing water into towns.
In Joplin, Mo., building after building was shredded by a devastating tornado, leveling homes, businesses and schools.

Elizabethtown native Matthew Willis grew up in the shadow of the Heartland Festival, and he has the scars to prove it, pointing to a permanent reminder he received on his leg from a jump off some bleachers just yards from where he stood Saturday.

The young father attended the latest installment of the festival, now known as the Heartland Music Festival, with five children and his girlfriend by his side. One son tugged on his arm hoping to play games and take home a prize.

WARMER DAYS. Last weekend was very warm with temperatures reaching in the 90s. Many farmers are cutting hay and getting it ready to bale. Thankfully the heavy rains have subsided.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE. A yard sale will be held June 18 at the Howevalley Vertrees Community Club building. Booth set ups will cost $10. For information, call 734-1539. Proceeds go back into the club to fund special needs of the community. Everyone is welcome.